Latest research which was published in Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dieteticson September 19 concluded that significant reduction in blood pressure will occur in those people who stick to the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension). Researchers found that African Americans are less likely to stick with DASHdiet in comparison to whites possibly due to “culturally sensitive” diets.

This study was conducted on 144 sedentary overweight or obese adults who were suffering from blood pressure at Duke University. Researchers found that African Americans were far less likely to take DASH diet when compared with whites under similar conditions.

According to TheHeart.org:

“The DASH study, first published in 1997, showed that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and low-fat dairy products significantly lowers blood pressure, especially in hypertensive patients. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive patients in the DASH trial was lowered 11.4 mm Hg and 5.5 mm Hg, respectively. Based on these findings, the national guidelines, both the JNC-6 and JNC-7, included the DASH diet among the therapeutic lifestyle changes advocated for all patients with or at risk for high blood pressure, regardless of concomitant antihypertensive drug therapy.”

Lead investigator in the study, James A. Blumenthal, PhD, Professor of Behavioral Medicine at Duke University Medical Center, said, although African Americans adopt a DASH diet and eat foods recommended accordingly, they are still more likely to consume “considerably more meat, sweets, and fat, and less fruit.”

“Strong cultural influences on food preferences, food preparation, and perceptions about eating practices might make it more challenging for African Americans to adhere to the DASH diet,” Blumenthal said.

Dr. Khaalisha Ajala from ABC News did an analysis of the report:

“I know grandma made that delicious Sunday dinner with love, but with its conventional ingredients, you will have a harder time getting your blood pressure under control.”

Source: The Inquisit

Copyright 2012 Medimoon.com. All rights reserved. No part of this site can be reproduced without our written permission.